Nova
Nova: name meaning, origin and popularity
Meaning and origin of Nova
Root meaning: “new”
- A female given name from Latin.
Etymology
From Latin nova (“new”).
How popular is Nova?
Since 1880, 55,783 girls and 3,227 boys in the U.S. have been named Nova (95% girls). Its highest rank for girls was #32 in 2021. Its highest rank for boys was #758 in 2020. In 2025 it ranked #46 for girls, with 4,806 babies given the name.
Names similar to Nova
Names that start with the same letters, most popular first.
More Latin girl names
Sibling name ideas for Nova
Sister and brother names that share Nova's Latin roots and are still in the U.S. top 1,000.
Nova FAQ
What does the name Nova mean?
Nova traces back to a root meaning "new". A female given name from Latin. From Latin nova (“new”).
What is the origin of the name Nova?
Nova is listed as a name of Latin origin.
How popular is the name Nova?
Since 1880, 55,783 girls and 3,227 boys in the U.S. have been named Nova (95% girls). Its highest rank for girls was #32 in 2021. Its highest rank for boys was #758 in 2020. In 2025 it ranked #46 for girls, with 4,806 babies given the name.
Is Nova a boy or girl name?
Nova is mostly a girl name in the U.S.: 55,783 girls and 3,227 boys since 1880.
Popularity data: U.S. Social Security Administration baby name data, 1880–2025 (names given to 5+ babies per year). Origin and etymology text: Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.